TODD
Todd
The British surname "Todd" is of Old English origin, derived from the medieval given name "Toda". The name "Todd" is classified as a patronymic surname, meaning it was originally derived from the personal name of an ancestor.
Origins
The surname Todd is believed to have originated in the northern regions of England and Scotland, where it was commonly used as a nickname or byname for someone who was seen as clever, wily, or cunning. The name was also associated with foxes, as "tod" is an old term for a fox in some dialects.
Distribution and Popularity
The surname Todd is relatively common in England, Scotland, and other English-speaking countries. It has spread to various parts of the world, particularly through migration and colonization. Todds can be found in significant numbers in the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Notable People
- Richard Todd (1919-2009) - A British actor known for his roles in films such as "The Dam Busters" and "The Longest Day".
- Sweeney Todd - Although a fictional character known for his exploits as the "Demon Barber of Fleet Street", the name has become synonymous with dark and macabre tales.
- Colin Todd - A former professional footballer and football manager in the English leagues.
Crest and Coat of Arms
The Todd family crest typically features symbols such as a red shield with three silver estoiles, denoting nobility and honor. The coat of arms may vary depending on the specific branch or family history.
In conclusion, the surname Todd holds a rich history rooted in Old English traditions, and it continues to be a prominent name among British surnames with a notable presence in various parts of the world.
There are approximately 30,296 people named Todd in the UK. That makes it the 265th most common surname in Britain. Around 465 in a million people in Britain are named Todd.
Surname type: Nickname
Origin: English
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: England
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: English
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- Christopher
- David
- James
- John
- Michael
- Richard
- Robert
- Stephen
- William
Female
- Christine
- Claire
- Elizabeth
- Gillian
- Helen
- Julie
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.